Stoney street is Shire’s happiest

Malcolm's Way residents with their Cash for Kids donation

Published:12:44Friday 12 August 2016

It’s official - Stonehaven can boast the happiest street in Aberdeenshire.

Malcolm’s Way - the street that spreads joy at Christmas time with their spectacular festive lights display - have proved that they are not just for Christmas by coming out on top in Northsound’s Happiest Street competition, after they raised a staggering 3243.18 for the station’s Cash for Kids charity.

The street is already well known to many in the town thanks to their annual Christmas lights display which raises thousands every year for charity during December. The tradition was started by the late Tom Bruce, who tragically lost his battle with cancer in August 2015.

His widow Patricia, along with several other neighbours, has proudly upheld the tradition, and it was Patricia who was again at the helm for this latest achievement.

Patricia and her neighbours Clara Maitland, Louise Killoh, Sonia Coull and Stacey Coull came up with several ideas to raise the cash, including a barbeque for family and friends, a raffle and taking collection buckets around the town’s pubs.

Patricia added that as well as the initial group, every house in the street was incredibly supportive of the fundraising attempt, and they will all benefit from a celebratory street party later this month as a prize, with Northsound broadcasting live from the street.

Patricia said: “Despite what happened with the loss of my husband the street kept the happy spirit that has brought us closer throughout the seven years that we have lived here, It is an awesome feeling to be recognised on a bigger scale.

“We are hopeful that being named the Happiest street will bring even more people along in December to enjoy our Christmas lights and help the charity we support.

“Local businesses were incredibly generous when it came to our raffle and time and again gave above and beyond what we requested. Our local businesses has a huge impact on our total amount and we are extremely thankful for their support.

“It just shows the amazing community spirit Stonehaven has. This is what makes the place extra special.”